CB Bene Benwikere claimed off waivers by Dolphins

DAVIE, Fla. (AP) Miami Dolphins linebacker Koa Misi has been placed on injured reserve because of a neck injury, and cornerback Bene Benwikere has been claimed off waivers.

Misi, a seven-year starter, missed the past two games because of the injury and is likely to be sidelined the rest of the season.

The Panthers released Benwikere last week after they allowed 503 yards passing by the Falcons. He was targeted for nearly half that total.

Benwikere reinforces depth following the loss of rookie starter Xavien Howard , who is expected to be sidelined several weeks recovering from minor knee surgery. Miami's other starter, Byron Maxwell, has struggled this season and was benched for a game.

A fifth-round draft pick in 2014, Benwikere started 14 games in three years with Carolina.